FGS News
Prayer for Peace and Coexistence at 30th Anniversary of Sydney Buddha's Birthday and Multicultural Festival
Francis Wong May 15, 2024 Co-organised by Fo Guang Shan Nan Tien Temple, BLIA Sydney, and Hsing Yun Education Foundation, sponsored by the New South Wales Government, Multicultural NSW, and Darling Harbour Place Management of NSW, the 30th anniversary "2024 Darling Harbour Buddha's Birthday and Multicultural Festival" was held for two consecutive days on 27th and 28th April at Darling Harbour Sydney. The opening ceremony of the Buddha's Birthday Festival was held at Tumbalong Park at 3 p.m. on the 27th. Dignitaries attending included The Hon. Chris Minns MP, the Premier of New South Wales, The Hon. Stephen Kamper MP, the Minister for Multiculturalism of New South Wales, Clr. Emelda Davis representing the mayor Clr. Clover Moore AO, Professor Denise Kirkpatrick, the President of Nan Tien Institute, Venerable Man Ko, Chief Abbess FGS Australia and New Zealand, and Mr. Daniel Wu, President of BLIA Sydney, among nearly 500 attendees. The ceremony began with an address from Elder Uncle Michael West of the Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council, promoting "care," "respect," "unity," and "collaboration," welcoming the Buddha's Birthday to be held at Darling Harbour. "The celebration of Buddha's Birthday and multiculturalism is an important annual event in New South Wales," stated The Hon. Chris Minns MP, emphasizing that the values of "peace," "compassion," "joy," and "harmony" advocated by Buddhism are the driving forces and virtues for promoting social harmony. The Premier further expressed gratitude to Fo Guang Shan and BLIA for their selfless service to the community over the years, especially thanking the BLIA Scouts for their participation in the "ANZAC Dawn Service" on 25th April, reinforcing the scouts' learning of the virtue of gratitude. Clr. Emelda Davis, representing the Sydney City Council, acknowledged the importance of coexistence and mutual prosperity, noting the global impact of climate change and emphasizing the need for mutual respect between humans and nature for coexistence and mutual prosperity. She encouraged the community to embody the Fo Guang Shan brand of "Three Acts of Good Deeds and Four Givings" in social and family life to promote family harmony. The Hon. Stephen Kamper MP, Minister for Multiculturalism, believed that the values of peace, selflessness, and compassion advocated by Buddhism are suitable for any religious belief, especially emphasizing that "compassion" can easily bring friends, colleagues, and families together. He thanked the organizers for organising the Buddha's Birthday and Multicultural Festival at Darling Harbour for 30 years, promoting cultural exchange within the community and bringing joy to the community. "NTI is Australia's first Buddhist university," proudly stated Professor Denise Kirkpatrick, noting the significant progress of NTI graduates in wisdom and compassion cultivation, which has positively impacted their families and careers, thus influencing society. Daniel Wu pointed out that "coexistence and mutual prosperity" embody the importance of service, environmental protection, and community cohesion. He further highlighted Fo Guang Shan's commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, participation in community activities, and the development of BLIA Scouts as prime examples of coexistence and mutual prosperity. The organizers, adhering to the principles of Fo Guang Shan, enriched the content of the Buddha's Birthday festival in four aspects, including culture, education, activities, and charity. Culturally, various religious representatives were invited to pray for "world peace," promoting cultural exchange among groups from different countries and cultural backgrounds, along with traditional rituals, blessing ceremonies, tea meditation, and the bathing of Buddha area. For education, there were Alms Rounds by venerables, allowing community and visitors to sow seeds of merit, contributing to the educational of Nan Tien Institute. Additionally, there were exhibitions of calligraphy by Master Hsing Yun, books, and investiture for BLIA Scouts Sydney, nurturing children's growth with proper faith-based education. For charity, funds raised from the VEGRUN were donated entirely to two charitable organizations, Lifeline Australia and the Black Dog Institute, to contribute to the promotion of mental health in society. Through the joyous celebration of Buddha's Birthday, the organizers expressed gratitude for the enlightenment and hope brought by the birth of the Buddha, bringing joy, auspiciousness, and harmony to society. The simultaneous global celebration of Buddha's Birthday brings peace and hope to the world.
Toronto 2024 Cloud and Water Dharma Talk Series: Blossoms with Insights from Floral Wisdom
The Life News Agency May 16, 2024 The Fo Guang Shan (FGS) Temple of Toronto and the Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA) Toronto Chapter initiated the "2024 Cloud and Water Dharma Talk Series" on April 14th, captivating around 120 attendees with a lecture titled " Blossoms with Insights from Floral Wisdom" by Mrs. Sue Hutchison, BLIA Lay Dharma Teacher. She shared insights on integrating the aesthetics of Buddha-Dharma into daily life through the art of flower arrangement, symbolizing Buddhist cultivation. Venerable Ru Zhong, the Superintendent of FGS Toronto, commenced the event with welcoming remarks. Drawing attention to flower-related analogies abundant in Buddhism, Venerable Ru Zhong elucidated the symbolic significance of flowers, such as the purity embodied by orchids and the transformative journey mirrored in the lotus flower. Mrs. Hutchison, renowned for her role in leading the Reception Team at the Temple and teaching flower arrangement courses at FGS Toronto Humanistic Buddhism Buddhist Courses, delved into three key aspects during her presentation: the profound connection between Buddhism and flowers, the spiritual merits of offering flowers, and the inspirational teachings derived from flowers. Citing Buddhist scripture, she pointed out the symbolic representations of flowers in the Buddha’s life journey, elucidating profound teachings embedded in nature's cycles. The auspiciousness of the white lotus and the Ashoka tree welcomed the birth of the Buddha, while the withering of the sal tree upon his Nirvana speaks of Dharma. The bloom and withering of flowers portray the Four Virtues of Nirvana: permanence and impermanence, happiness and suffering, self and non-self, and purity and defilement. Exploring the benefits of offering flowers to the Buddha and Bodhisattvas as outlined in the Agama Sutra, Mrs. Hutchison elaborated on the virtues bestowed upon practitioners, including serenity, merit accumulation, and alignment with the Dharma. Reflecting on her affinity for the Japanese art of floral design, she underscored the lessons of impermanence and resilience observed through her practice, aligning with Buddhist principles. Mrs. Hutchison briefly introduced the origin of Ikenobō and reflected on her experiences as an enthusiast of the Japanese art of floral design. She learned to appreciate the beauty of all stages of life through her long-time hobby. Aged and bent branches, near-fallen autumn leaves, early spring sprouts, and even branches hit hard by wintry winds showcased unique characters and beauty. The resilience of plants demonstrates the truth of impermanence, quietly manifesting the importance of cherishing every moment. During a demonstration of Ikenobō, Mrs. Hutchison expounded on its simplicity and philosophical depth, emphasizing its harmony with the teachings of Venerable Master Hsing Yun. Integrating the Five Harmonies principle into floral arrangements, she emphasized the importance of harmonious coexistence at various levels of society for global peace. Drawing parallels between the Vimalakīrti Sūtra and the philosophy of Ikenobō, Mrs. Hutchison urged attendees to perceive the world as a reflection of their inner selves, navigating life with wisdom and compassion. Encouraging mindful observation of flowers as manifestations of Buddha's teachings, she concluded with a call to cultivate positive intentions and spread loving-kindness, fostering a more beautiful and harmonious world. Through Mrs. Hutchison's insightful Dharma Talk, attendees were inspired to perceive the profound teachings of Buddhism in the delicate beauty of flowers, embracing wisdom and compassion on their journey toward enlightenment.
Nurturing Our Planet BLIA North Island Chapter’s T-Earth Initiative for Earth Day
Fo Guang Shan New Zealand May 16, 2024 In response to Earth Day, the Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA) North Island Chapter held the T-Earth: Environmental Protection and Spiritual Prevention event on 21st April 2024. Despite the chilly weather, over 50 BLIA members and youths participated under the guidance of the Minister in Charge of FGS Auckland Venerable Rulian. At 9am, the group gathered in the Front Shrine, where Venerable Rulian led a blessing ceremony. She encouraged everyone to take action to care for the Earth, not just for themselves but also for future generations. Mental mindfulness is equally important, purifying thoughts, ideas, language and intentions promotes social harmony and benefits all. The group then split into five teams to work in different areas, cleaning gutters, clearing fallen leaves, trimming hedges, cleaning the parking lot and pruning vines. Volunteers in the kitchen prepared a tasty vegetarian lunch to refuel everyone. President Evelyn KU of BLIA North Island Chapter, noted that beautifying the Temple grounds helps create a dignified environment while reminding people to purify their body, speech and mind, and bring joy to others. She emphasised that caring for the Earth is everyone’s responsibility. Through tree planting, vegetarian promotion, reducing energy consumption and plastic use, and proper waste sorting, BLIA members aim to slow down global warming and create a sustainable world. Sub-president Anita Chu of the Third Subchapter, praised everyone’s commitment to protecting the planet through small actions. Sara, a BLIA member, acknowledged that although she felt physically tired, she was glad to be able to serve both the Earth and the Temple. She thanked the Temple for offering a beautiful environment that provided opportunities to improve herself. Fred Gu shared that through teamwork he learned to focus, persevere and reflect. He found peace and recognised the value of the Founder, Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s teaching that strong determination can help achieve goals. President Steven of BLIA Auckland Senior YAD, emphasised that T-Earth isn’t a one-day event but an ongoing initiative. He mentioned taking care of the Earth starts with caring for one’s environment and contributing even through small acts. Youth member Alan Han appreciated the importance of teamwork, noting the group’s harmonious collaboration and the positive feedback that energised him and gave him a sense of achievement. He expressed gratitude to the Temple for providing opportunities to cultivate good fortune.
BLIA Sydney’s Sustainable Living Communal Learning Space: inspiring Happiness and Peace on Buddha’s Birthday
BLIA Sydney May 15, 2024 Buddha's Birthday Multicultural Festival took place at Darling Harbour, Sydney for the 30th time on April 27 and 28, 2024. In alignment with the festival theme of “Coexistence and Coprosperity”, BLIA Sydney East 1, West 1, and West 2 Subchapters created a “Sustainable Living” communal learning space at the festival to promote the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3: "Good Health and Wellbeing." SDG3 is connected to the theme of "Happiness and Peace," proposed by the founding president of BLIA, Venerable Master Hsing Yun. The Sustainable Living communal learning space was created to allow participants to "Learn, play, create, and be with Nature”, experience happiness and peace in life, in the hope of promoting sustainable wellbeing and coprosperity among all beings. At the "Happiness Corner", visitors could sit down and enjoy their very own hand-ground coffee, savour handmade flower vegan cookies, and just be in the present moment to experience simple pleasures in life. The "Happiness Corner” was inspired by the "Tea Pavilion of Fo Guang Shan, which offers free tea to visitors to recharge on their tour between Fo Guang Shan Monastery and Buddha Museum. It hopes to spread happiness and the spirit of the Four Givings: giving others confidence, joy, hope, and convenience. Artist and art practitioner Dr Cindy Chen hosted two art talks titled "Listening to Nature." In the interactive talks Cindy offered valuable insights into the creative process behind her work "Resonant Flows". She described how she created the collaborative artwork with nature in the rain along Parramatta and Lane Cove Rivers. Her art practice of embodied listening and emplaced experimental drawing was presented in simple and engaging language that children among the audience could understand. At the "Flower Pounding Art Workshop" organised by FGS Nan Tien Buddhist Temple Parramatta and BLIA Sydney West subchapters, the public could try their hands at pound-dyeing, an intangible cultural heritage craft of China. The stall was filled with lively hammering sounds of adults and children decorating their “Happiness and Peace” eco-friendly cloth bags with pounded flowers and leaves. Audrey Blackman, a BLIA YAD volunteer at the workshop, received positive feedback from the participants. She was told that the session was therapeutic, and a lesson in mindfulness, and in accepting imperfections, something that is relevant in our lives. The SDG Communal Learning Space also featured artworks collected through the Fo Guang Three Acts of Goodness Young Artist Award drawing, writing and creative nature artwork competitions. The exhibition of nature artwork took inspirations from Venerable Master Hsing Yun's essay "My Little Animal Friends," to depict the harmonious coexistence of humans and nature and to convey messages of equality, compassion, and respect. To promote the Buddhist values of cherishing blessings and the SDGs, BLIA Sydney also organised a series of sustainable living workshops, highlighting ways to tackle food waste. Kathryn Sunantha from Bliss Pure Foods taught participants how to transform imperfect apples into apple cider vinegar and enzyme to harness their untarnished health effects. Environmental educator Louie Leung demonstrated composting and setting up a worm farm at home. Margaret Mossakowska from Moss House shared some practical sustainable practices, such as natural fermentation and creating natural skincare products from pantry items. Margaret also led two workshops on making eco-friendly beeswax wraps to encourage plastic free living. The Buddha's Birthday Sustainable Living communal learning space attracted nearly 500 visitors daily, offering a variety of hands-on activities that showcased the simplicity and joy of sustainable living and the harmonious coexistence with nature.
Toronto Buddhist Community Celebrates International Buddhist Day
The Life News Agency May 15, 2024 On the evening of April 10th, 2024, Venerable Chueh Fan, the Abbess of the Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto, along with Ven. Ru Zhong, Ven. Zhi Guan and eight representatives of the temple attended the "International Buddhist Day Celebration" held at the West End Buddhist Temple in Mississauga. Nearly a hundred representatives from various Buddhist organizations and government officials from the Greater Toronto Area participated in the event, expressing the sincere wish of Canadian Buddhists for the United Nations to officially recognize April 8th as "International Buddhist Day," as proposed by The World Buddhist Summit. The ceremony commenced with a symbolic gesture of offering flowers to the Buddha by representatives from 26 Theravada and Mahayana Buddhist monastics. Bhante Saranapala, the Canadian representative of the World Buddhist Summit, set the tone with an opening speech expressing gratitude for the widespread support. Venerable Ahangama Rathanasiri Nayaka Mahathera highlighted the importance of compassion and inclusivity in today's society, advocating for actions that foster harmony and support for those in need. Representing Mahayana Buddhism, Venerable Chueh Fan emphasized the significance of cooperation among Canadian Buddhists and the rationale behind designating April 8th as "International Buddhist Day." She underscored the principles of "Humanistic Buddhism" and the concept of "Five Harmonies" as pathways to inner peace and societal harmony, resonating with the teachings of Venerable Master Hsing Yun, the founder of Fo Guang Shan. Buddhists should begin with cultivating inner peace and joy, extending it to the family, practicing respect towards oneself and others, fostering social harmony, and ultimately achieving world peace. We should step out of the narrow circle of self-interest and embrace a broader sense of compassion for all beings, fostering understanding and respect to create a world filled with love and peace. The event continued with monastics offering prayers and blessings for global peace, followed by a loving-kindness meditation led by Venerable Ananda from the Cambridge area. Distinguished guests including city councilors Christina Fonseca, Alvin Tedjo, and Dipika Damerla from Mississauga, along with Rev. Earl Smith representing Toronto's religious diversity, reiterated the importance of cultural preservation and fostering a cohesive society. Through speeches, prayers, and meditations, the gathering exemplified the shared commitment of the Toronto Buddhist community toward promoting understanding, compassion, and peace in the world.
Humanistic Buddhism Promotion in Cebu, Philippines
Venerable Miao Jing May 15, 2024 As part of the promotion of Humanistic Buddhism in the Philippines, Venerable Miao Guang, the Deputy Chancellor of the Fo Guang Shan (FGS) Institute of Humanistic Buddhism Taiwan came to Cebu for a momentous event that highlights three different activities. A lecture on death and dying; a generous book donation of the works of Venerable Master Hsing Yun; and the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing between the Fo Guang Shan Institute of Humanistic Buddhism (IHB) through the Humanistic Buddhism Center Philippines and the University of San Carlos (USC) through the Department of Philosophy. The event took place in the University of San Carlos Talamban Campus on April 20, 2024 at the SAFAD Theater. The hybrid event was live-streamed online to account to the total attendance of almost 400 participants. The USC Fr. President Francisco Estepa,PhD SVD gave the commitment to fostering a well rounded understanding and hosting the lecture of respected Buddhist Scholar, Ven. Miao Guang. The Buddhist tradition offers a rich philosophical and spiritual tradition to framework the contemplating death not with dread but with acceptance and wisdom. This lecture is a valuable opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of impermanence and its role in shaping a meaningful life, explore Buddhist philosophy on suffering and how to alleviate it, and learn practices for cultivating compassion and equanimity in the face of mortality. In her lecture entitled A Matter of Life and Death from the Buddhist Perspective she asked the students to consider the prospect of death as an opportunity to live a good life. She probed questions like, what are we in this life for? Are we scared of death? What legacy do we leave behind? Her lecture is relevant because she presented on the Buddhist views of suffering, non-attachment, and re-birth in a manner that was personal and not technical that made it easily relatable to the general audience. Such is the vision of Venerable Master Hsing Yun, to bring to light the core teachings of the Buddha in a manner that is understandable, applicable, and meaningful. The Book donation, meanwhile, was a collection of the works of Venerable Master Hsing Yun as well as the Encyclopedia of Buddhist Arts. It was received by the Chair of the Department of Philosophy, Dr. Ruby Suazo and the Director of Libraries. All the books will be sent to the Learning Resource Center where all the students will have access to the wisdom of Humanistic Buddhism. Finally, the MOU shall prompt faculty exchanges, in the form of lectures, forums, and round table discussions as well as researches by faculty and graduate students who wish to learn more about humanistic Buddhism. Venerable Abbess Miao Jing of FGS Mabuhay Temple and Venerable You Hui of FGS Chu Un Temple are active in international religious dialogues, exchanges and partnerships. The collaborative effort is based on open-mindedness, interactive relations and mutual respect transcending boundaries to achieve harmony, peace and love-kindness. The metaphor of a colorful garden with green plants has described the concept of co-existence and oneness in humankind. It was a fruitful event with deep reflections about life delivered eloquently by the speaker. It marked a good start for future collaborations between the IHB and USC.
Members of the Siddhartha Musical cast Take Refuge and Receive Precepts
Fo Guang Shan Mabuhay Temple May 15, 2024 On April 22nd, at the Manila Mabuhay Temple of Fo Guang Shan in the Philippines, a Three Refuges and Five Precepts ceremony was held, attended by all 24 staff and actors of the Siddhartha Musical. The Philippines being a predominantly Catholic country, this ceremony was not only an exchange between Buddhists and artists but also a convergence of hearts and beliefs. Actor Benjie shared his feelings after accepting the Three Refuges and Five Precepts during the ceremony. He expressed joy in this fresh start, stating that portraying the role of the Buddha gave him special insights, deepening his understanding of life and faith. Director Junrey shared his journey of developing an interest in Buddhism through the Siddhartha Musical. He mentioned that years of association with Fo Guang Shan enabled him to gain a deeper understanding of Buddhist teachings, especially being profoundly influenced by the teachings of Fo Guang Shan's founding master, Venerable Master Hsing Yun, which purified and elevated his spirit. Abbess Venerable Miao Jing encouraged everyone to strive for the Three Acts of Goodness after receiving the Five Precepts— Do Good Deeds, Speak Good Words, and Think Good Thought. This, she emphasized, is a demonstration of responsibility towards oneself and others, and a vivid interpretation of Buddhist values. Venerable Yung Guang, the Head Abbess of Fo Guang Shan in the Philippines, inspired contemplation on life and value through a philosophical fable. Each person is likened to different materials, each possessing unique value and utility. Some are like diamonds, inherently valuable, yet without proper utilization, their brilliance remains unseen; others are like stones, seemingly ordinary but able to wield tremendous influence in certain circumstances. Therefore, having the aspiration and taking practical action are the keys to endowing life with true value. "The holding of this ceremony is not only an affirmation of Buddhist faith but also a beautiful revelation of artistic creation and personal growth. Let us together respect life, cherish every moment, and let our spirits shine brighter in the light of faith," concluded Head Abbess Venerable Yung Guang.
FGS Christchurch Buddha’s Birthday Celebration: Nourishes the Pure Land of the Human World
Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Temple Christchurch April 26, 2024 On 20 April 2024, Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Temple Christchurch hosted the annual Buddha’s Birthday Celebration for World Peace, with nearly 800 people in attendance. The ceremony was led by the Abbess of FGS NZ Venerable Manshin, featuring the recitation of the Heart Sutra and the Prayer for World Peace written by the Founder of FGS Venerable Master Hsing Yun. Religious blessings were conducted by Reverend Canon Ben Truman, Dean of Christchurch Cathedral and Dr Surinder Tandon, President of the Christchurch Multicultural Council. Attendees in the temple offered flowers to the Buddha and bathed the statue of Prince Siddhartha. Devotees also prayed for inner purity and societal harmony. The celebration began with the City of Christchurch Highland Pipe Band playing Scottish bagpipes. Distinguished guests included the President of BLIA South Island, Bernie SIEW, the Mayor of Christchurch Mr Phil Mauger, Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Christchurch Madame HE Ying, MP for Wigram Hon Dr Megan Woods, District Commander of the Canterbury Superintendent Tony Hill, The World Peace Bell Association Christchurch representative David Bolam-Smith, the University of Canterbury Professor Mike Reid, artists Tricia Morant and Hugh Rickard were in attendance. The Temple prepared special auspicious apples as a blessing for everyone’s peace and happiness. Abbess Manshin addressed the BLIA member’s efforts in building affinities and benefiting life through making connections, joyfully serving and practicing the Noble Eightfold Path, aiming to cultivate a pure mind and create a peaceful society. President Bernie expressed gratitude for the guidance of Abbess and the Temple, as well as the dedicated support of the volunteers, emphasizing that the happiness and peace of all humanity are the goals and direction of the BLIA members. Learning from Buddha’s spirit of respect and tolerance is about finding unity in diversity, practicing equality with an attitude of mutual understanding. Mayor Phil Mauger remarked that Buddha is one of the greatest spiritual leaders in history. Buddha‘s teaching of compassion, understanding, non-violence, tolerance, love and respect for all life is what the world needs. Hon MP Megan Wood shared that practicing the Three Acts of Goodness and Four Givings in life advocated by the Venerable Master will definitely create a harmonious nation and a beautiful world. Superintendent Tony Hill expressed that the police department highly values the interaction with the Temple and that the FGS spirit of the collective effort is essential as NZ Police force is committed to protecting the public’s safety, which requires everyone’s collective efforts to maintain safety. Consul General He Ying praised the vitality of the BLIA Young Adult Division, thanking FGS for its continuous efforts to promote Buddhist culture, education and charity, playing a significant role in enhancing multicultural integration in South Island NZ and actively spreading the ideals of world peace. The event also featured BLIA YAD dance performances, Baby & Children Blessing Ceremony, Tea Meditation sessions, vegetarian food fair, local market stalls and lucky draw, wishing that everyone brings peace and joy home.
Dharma talk by Ven. Miao Guang in Guang Ming College
Lourdes April 25, 2024 On April 17, 2024, the Deputy Chancellor of Fo Guang Shan (FGS) Institute of Humanistic Buddhism, Venerable Miao Guang, made her inaugural lecture in Guang Ming College (GMC) Tagaytay entitled “Remembering the Founder: Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s Teaching through His Speech and Self-Examples.” It was attended by over 150 participants of GMC faculty and students, as well as FGS Mabuhay Temple Venerable Abbess Miao Jing, Venerable Zhi Qin, BLIA Philippines President Kathy Lim, Secretary Marlene Lao and Deputy Secretary Meeling Sze. GMC Student Affairs and International Linkages Director Prof. Maru Bautista welcomed Venerable Miao Guang who is committed to the spread of Humanistic Buddhism globally, has become an inspiration to GMC scholars and faculty to enhance the mission in developing compassionate leaders both grounded in their local realities and knowledgeable about global issues. Venerable Miao Jing gave the closing remarks as she acknowledged the needs to know and understand GMC Founder on youth education, sports and arts through Humanistic Buddhism. Venerable Miao Guang’s presence should farther the academic and cultural opportunities for Filipino scholars. Gail Matan, a third year Buddhist studies major is deeply moved by the person of Venerable Master Hsing Yun. She expressed that his teachings encourage her to be socially responsible especially with the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and how to engage with this technology. She also mentioned that she is currently writing her thesis on AI and Humanistic Buddhism towards social responsibility and ethical mindfulness while engaging with technology. Red Mike Cinco, also a third year Buddhist Studies major shares his experience about being the bread winner of the family. He reflects on his life four years ago when he had no means of support for studies and yet Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s scholarship allowed him to continue studying and working part time to earn for his family. He was teary eyed and was touched greatly by the compassionate heart of the Venerable Master Hsing Yun. Sophia a dance major had learned and was moved by the compassionate heart of Venerable Master Hsing Yun. She expressed her wholehearted gratitude about being a scholar of GMC.
Engage in the Buddha's Light International Association's Green Initiative: Planting Seeds of Love on Earth Day
Fo Guang Shan Yuan Thong Temple April 25, 2024 In alignment with Earth Day, the Buddha's Light International Association Philippines – Bacolod Chapter conducted a tree-planting extravaganza, injecting new vitality into environmental conservation. Spearheaded by English Secretary Cora, the project liaised with the Bacolod City Government and Talisay Government, garnering support for tree sapling sponsorship and planting sites. On April 19th, they visited the Bacolod Department of Agriculture to receive the prepared saplings. On April 21st, led by Venerable Zhi Rong from Yuan Thong Temple, President Margarate Cordova, Supervisor Rosita Gochangco, Bacolod Youth Volunteer Amity Group, Bacolod Chapter Youth Group Rheya and Ciara, along with over twenty enthusiastic participants from the Yuan Thong Temple's SanHao Group including teachers Rutha and Virnie, journeyed to the mountainous region of Talisay, commencing this green initiative. Despite the scorching weather, participants' hearts blazed with enthusiasm as they hand in hand planted saplings on the mountainside. Walking upon the earth, surrounded by nature, they felt the beauty and sanctity of life. These saplings not only symbolize greenery but also embody a commitment to love and protect the Earth. Guided by Talisay personnel, they found the most suitable locations, gently planting each tree into the soil. The trees planted this time are hardwood, which will grow into a part of the forest, enriching the land in the future. This tree-planting event saw the planting of over a hundred trees. It was not merely an action but also an embodiment of giving back to nature and expressing love for the Earth. Special thanks to Atty. BEDRIO from the Department of Agriculture for their tremendous assistance in ensuring the smooth progress of this event. Let us join hands and work together to protect our home, filling the Earth with greenery for sustainable prosperity! Virnie mentioned it was their first time participating in tree planting, and it was very meaningful to breathe fresh air on the mountain while exercising. Rosita Gochangco expressed that despite mobility limitations, being able to participate to the best of their ability and experience various aspects of the Buddha's Light International Association and Fo Guang Shan very fulfilling.
